Geosciences (master's two years)

Through the Master's programme in Geosciences you will develop a comprehensive understanding together with detailed empirical and theoretical knowledge within a specific area of the subject.

You will get practical experience with scientific methods and models, with carrying out a research project, and inspiration to critical thinking and reflection. The research projects will draw on knowledge from supporting subjects such as chemistry, physics, statistics, mathematics, mechanics, biology and informatics. The master's thesis projects include a combination of fieldwork, laboratory analyses, modelling, experiments and theory. The masters degree thesis will be defined, as far as possible, to fit into the work of an active research community within the field in which you are writing your thesis.

After you have completed a master’s in geoscience, you will have acquired the following knowledge, skills and competence:
You will have advanced knowledge within the broader subject field and specialised insight in a limited area.
You will have a thorough knowledge of the scientific theories and methods that relate to the subject.
You can apply your knowledge to new areas within the subject field.
You can analyse the professional approach to a problem with your background knowledge of the subject area’s history, tradition, distinctive quality, and place in society.

The job market for candidates with geoscience qualifications is good, both in Norway and abroad. There are many opportunities, for example in the fields of hydropower, environmental geology and natural hazards, geomatics, the petroleum industry, weather forecasting or mining. You will have the opportunity to write your master’s thesis in co-operation with a private company or research institute, which is a good way to get to know the employment market from the inside.

You will find people with a background in geoscience working in public administration, and in the public and private sector in Norway and abroad. Here are some examples of places where geoscientists educated at UiO are employed (in Norwegian).

The master's programme has close connections with a range of external institutes and private companies, including the Norwegian Water Directorate, The Norwegian Geological Survey, the Meteorological Institute, the Norwegian Geotechnical Institute, The Norwegian Polar Institute, research institutions on Svalbard (UNIS), Bioforsk, CICERO, NIJOS, NORSAR, NIVA, Statoil and Hydro among others. Many of our alumni work in these institutes and companies.